Gary Cooper

BARRINGTON—Gary L. Cooper, 87, of Barrington, IL, passed away on April 2, 2026, with family by his side. Gary was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, Army veteran, and dear friend, entered eternal life on April 2, 2026. He was born on Dec. 16, 1938, to Francis Leo Cooper and Nina Cooper (Gelsthorpe).
Gary was raised in Wilmington, and remained proud of his roots throughout his life. He was an eternally optimistic fan of his alma mater, the fighting Illini. Gary met his beloved wife, Mary Lou (Thornton) in fourth grade and together they shared 58 years of marriage, raising their family in Deerfield, IL.
After college Gary was a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. For his entire career, Gary was a successful salesman and executive for American Hospital Supply, later Baxter Healthcare. He took great pride in providing for his family. In retirement, Gary enjoyed travel, trips to Door County, golf, and above all, spending time with his family.
He was the proud father of Mary Beth (Robert Bagg), Patrick (Maria Connor), Michael (Lisa Schalk), and Christopher (Deena Simon). Gary was a cherished grandfather to nine grandchildren: Sara (Tyler Reaker), Emily Bagg, Eric Bagg (Katie Wagg), Maria Cooper (Alex Redlinger), Christian Cooper, Maggie Cooper, Danny Cooper, James Cooper, and Mary Teresa Cooper. He was blessed with a great-granddaughter, Percy Lou.
Gary will be remembered for his steady presence, his gratitude for life’s blessings, his deep love of family, and his kindness and strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Special thanks to the Prairieview staff at the Garlands of Barrington; Journey Care Hospice; his longtime caregiver, Brian; Fr. Rodolfo Ramirez, Associate Pastor at St. Anne’s Catholic Parish; and Deacon Bob Powers, also of St. Anne’s. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the www.misericordia.com/giving/donate-online/>Misericordia Heart of Mercy.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, May 18th at Holy Cross Parish 724 Elder Lane, Deerfield IL 60015. Visitation at 9:30 am, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30 am. A Celebration of life will follow and all are welcome.